'Dancing With The Stars' 2013 Pairings Announced

By Emma Koonse, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, February 26, 2013

The new cast and their professional dance partners on "Dancing with the Stars" were revealed on "Good Morning America" Tuesday morning.

Season 16 of ABC's hit reality dancing competition already leaked some names to the press, but all 11 contestants were released today.

Firstly, Winona Judd will be dancing with "DWTS" longtime pro Tony Dovoloni.

Next, D.L. Hughes' partner was announced as famed dancer Cheryl Burke. The rest of the cast and their partners include Jacoby Jones paired with Karina Smirnoff, reality television star Lisa Vanderpump is paired with "DWTS" newcomer Gleb Savchenko, and Andy Dick is paired with another "DWTS" newcomer Shara Burgess.

"DWTS" has also welcomed new dancer Lindsay Arnold who will dance with Victor Ortiz. Disney's Zendaya is paired with Val Chmerkovski, while Aly Raisman is set to dance with Mark Ballas.

Actor Ingo Rademacher is paired with former "DWTS" champ Kym Johnson, Kellie Pickler will dance with Derek Hough, and lastly, Dorothy Hamill is set to take the dance floor alongside pro dancer Tristan MacManus.

"DWTS" showrunners are taking what is called its biggest risk ever by inviting former MTV star Andy Dick onto the cast. The comedian has had several brushes with the law in recent years; including guilty pleas to drugs use and battery charges.

Hosts Tom Bergeron and Brooke Burke-Charvet will return for the 16th season, which will likely see many of today's hottest musical acts as guest performers.

Recently, Burke-Charvet announced her diagnosis with thyroid cancer, causing her "DWTS" associates to rally their support. Posts of well wishes flooded Twitter in support of the model and host.

"DWTS" will return to ABC on Monday, March 18. The show airs on the network on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. EST.

The reality television series first aired in 2005 and has captured America's interest with stiff competition and quality entertainment.

In the past, stars such as Julianne Hough, Kristie Alley, Maria Menounos, Pamela Anderson, and Jennifer Grey have appeared on "DWTS."

Furthermore, "DWTS" champion include "Bachelorette" star Trista Sutter, Evander Holyfield, Kelly Monaco, Drew Lachey, Harry Hamlin, as well as the show's host, Burke-Charvet, among many others.